The ultimate hospital bag checklist for birth

Here are the things that you might want to have packed as you prepare for labour and the miracle of meeting your little one for the first time.

Childbirth is a miracle, and also an absolute rollercoaster. Minutes may feel like hours, or vice versa. Either way, advance preparation can help the whole process to go a little more smoothly. Depending on your disposition, you may shy away from the idea of packing a bag in advance or you may find it soothing to take control of some aspects of this exciting (but daunting!) situation. Trust us – when the time comes, you’ll be grateful to have the bag pre-packed and ready to go!

Three bags are better than one

On the face of it, packing a hospital bag may seem straightforward but there are a number of things to consider. One recommended approach is to, in fact, pack three bags. It might seem excessive but there’s a method to the madness.

Your main bag

This bag should be the biggest of the three, and will store all of the necessary items for your stay, including anything you might need during and after the labour itself. Starting with clothes, you’ll need a change of outfit for going home, including spare pairs of underwear and socks. Next up is a toiletries bag with all your usual items that you would take on a trip – don’t forget anything that will help you to feel a little pampered too.

Some pyjamas and a dressing gown are also a must-pack for comfort. Pop in some maternity pads and any pain relief medication that you think you’ll need. Here, you can also bring books, a tablet and any chargers you may need, along with your birth plan if you have created one.

Lastly, remember to pack anything you and your baby will need immediately post-birth. Prepare something comfortable for you to wear and the essentials for your beautiful new-born, namely a diaper and their first little outfit!

Your baby’s bag

Packing a bag for your little bundle of joy who’s yet to arrive is such a fun activity and is a great outlet for all of the anticipation that has undoubtedly been building up. This bag will contain all that your little one will need once they’ve arrived! Start with ample bodysuits and sleepsuits, as well as plenty of diapers. Some muslin cloths, a nice soft blanket, and perhaps a hat for your new-born, should all make their way into this bag. A packet of baby wipes is useful here also, to take care of any little spills or messes that may happen. Finally, take some baby balm to take care of your adorable new-born’s precious skin. 

Your partner’s bag

It’s safe to say that your birthing partner won’t be working as hard as you on this big day, so part of their job is to supply anything that you may need to support you during your stay. Suitable food and drinks are always useful to have on hand. Labour is tough and having an ample supply of snacks at the bedside can give you little boosts along the way. Make sure that any food you bring is gentle on your stomach and easy to digest, as your body will be focusing its energy elsewhere.

This bag should also contain any clothes and toiletries that your birthing partner might need throughout the duration of your stay. A battery pack to charge any of your devices is worth squeezing into this bag, just in case there aren’t any sockets available in the room.

Other tips

Before you set out for this miraculous event, there are a few more handy tips to be aware of. In the lead up, swap out your usual hygiene products for unscented alternatives. This will allow your new-born to sense your natural scent which will help them to bond with you. You can also sleep with their blanket for your final few days of pregnancy and it will absorb some of your scent too, turning it into a soothing item of comfort for your little one.

An easy exit

Last but not least, consider making a ‘leaving the house’ checklist. On this list will be anything and everything that you need to do in order to make sure that your house is safely locked and everything inside is switched off. You don’t want to be en route to the maternity ward trying to remember if you turned the TV off or closed all of the windows! So put together a comprehensive list that will leave nothing to chance.

Aside from all of the obvious ones, there are a few items for this list that are worth considering. It can be a good idea to tell your neighbours that you’re heading to the hospital so that they don’t worry about your absence. And don’t forget to leave some food out for your pets, if you have any. Finally, remember to bring the bags that you have so carefully packed!

At the onset of labour, whether this is your first time or not, it’s a weight off your mind to know that the practical preparations have been made and you can focus on looking forward to welcoming your new-born to the world!

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